Buddhist nun to hold free talk

An American Buddhist nun will speak here next week on balancing spiritual values with social and political activism such as participation in human rights issues.

KarmaLekshe Tsomo:

She will speak on balancing spiritual and political ideas

Karma Lekshe Tsomo, who follows the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, will speak at 6:30 p.m. Friday at Honolulu Jodo Mission, 1429 Makiki St. Her talk on "Bridging Worlds: The Middle Way of Global Citizenship" will be sponsored by the Buddhist Peace Fellowship - Oahu.

Tsomo is an assistant professor of theology and religious studies at the University of San Diego and the author of books including "Into the Jaws of Yama: Buddhism, Bioethics and Death" and "Sisters in Solitude." She is president of the International Association of Buddhist Women and is active in interfaith dialogue. She attended the University of Hawaii, earning master's degrees in Asian studies and Asian religions and a doctorate in comparative philosophy.

The lecture is free but donations will be accepted.

New Hope event to have star power

Well-known recording stars will enliven worship services next weekend as New Hope Christian Fellowship holds its annual "Spirit of Aloha" celebration at the University of Hawaii Stan Sheriff Center.

Nicole Mullen, winner of several Dove awards for contemporary gospel music, will perform at the opening event and at services at 6 p.m. next Saturday and 8 and 11 a.m. June 1. The singer and guitarist was nominated for a Grammy for her 2005 album "Everyday People."

"Spreading the Spirit of Hope" is the theme for the weekend. A combined choir from several New Hope congregations on Oahu will lead praise music. Pastor Wayne Cordeiro will speak.

The celebration is open to the public. UH parking is $3 on Friday and free during the weekend.